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The Cell Theory

Look outside your window. What do you see? Chances are, there about ten different species of plants, a bush full of colorful roses, and one or two sparrows fluttering their wings and flying towards the horizon. These plants, flowers, sparrows, and even us, are all made up of the same thing: Cells! This idea that we are all made up of cells is called “The Cell Theory“

What is the Cell Theory?

The Cell Theory is one of the most fundamental concepts of biology, and is split into three essential ideas:

  • All living organisms are made up of cells
  • New cells are created from pre-existing cells through cellular division
  • The cell is the basic structural and functional unit of life

As research continued, the Cell Theory was expanded upon. The more modern version of the Cell Theory states the following:

  • All cells are the same in chemical composition
  • Genetic material is passed down to other cells during cellular division
  • Energy flow occurs in cells

Types of Cells

The two main types of cells are eukaryotic cells and prokaryotic cells. The main difference between the two is that eukaryotic cells contain a nucleus and various organelles, while prokaryotic cells do not have a nucleus and do not have membrane-bound genetic material. Examples of eukaryotic cells include plant cells and animal cells. Examples of prokaryotic cells include bacteria. Most bacteria are composed of just one prokaryotic cell! This, however, still supports the Cell Theory as it proves that all organisms are made up of one or more cells (including bacteria).

How did the Cell Theory form?

In 1665, English scientist Robert Hooke was the first of mankind to discover cells. They are called “cells” because Hooke thought them to look like small compartments or prison cells. Years later, in 1830, two botanists named Theodor Schwann and Matthias Schleiden were the first scientists to propose the Cell Theory-based off on Hooke’s essential discovery. Later, other scientists such as Rudolf Virchow expanded on the idea of the Cell Theory and contributed to the fundamental concepts we have today.

Summary

Look outside your window again. Every living thing out there is made up of the same tiny structures that you are made up of. Each animal and plant you see has millions, billions, and trillions of cells! Each of those cells is carrying out important tasks that help us live, grow, and survive.

Sources

Find out more at:

https://www.thoughtco.com/cell-theory-373300

https://bio.libretexts.org/

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